Integrate into French culture in Montpellier, a vibrant city just miles from the Mediterranean. Enjoy the city’s college-town atmosphere, medieval and contemporary architecture, and sunny climate. 

What makes this program unique?

• This program offers options for students at the intermediate, and advanced language levels at Paul Valéry University. 
• Choose between a language and culture program or an integrated studies option.
• Hone your French language skills and take classes in a variety of subjects alongside French students at Paul Valéry University, one of Europe’s oldest universities.
• Courses are offered in French language, culture, history, literature, humanities, social science, sciences, and business for advanced students.

Why Montpellier?

Live and study in Montpellier, one of France's fastest growing cities and an emerging cultural and educational center. Within easy reach of both mountains and the Mediterranean, and home to 100,000 university students, Montpellier is a young, vibrant city with a centuries-old history of intellectual advances and social tolerance. It is the ideal place for an introduction to French language and culture.

Based at the Paul Valéry University, the liberal arts division of the University of Montpellier, this program also provides access to the highly regarded medical, engineering, and law departments through an extremely flexible course structure. Choose from a mix of special courses with American and foreign students, and regular University of Montpellier courses with French students.

Supplemental excursions introduce the unique flavor of southern France. An excursion is included each term and introduces students to the unique character of southern France. In addition, the program's social and administrative assistants organize activities to familiarize you with the city and provide you with opportunities to meet French students. Students are encouraged to participate in local clubs that offer activities such as skiing, hiking, and photography. A two-week break in December, a two-week break in the spring, and travel before or after the program are excellent opportunities to explore France.

How do I choose among programs?

• See the Office of Global Learning’s “Selecting a Program” page for information on program types and considerations
• Use the search features on the Experience Cornell  Opportunities page to filter for programs approved by your college, and by particular subject areas
• Go to the “Get Advice” page for information on drop-in advising hours, scheduling an advising appointment, returned student contacts, and college advisors for study abroad
• Find out about upcoming events, check out FAQs, and read stories from returned study abroad students

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.)